News Summary
New York State is evaluating proposals for up to three new casino licenses, including a significant expansion by Resorts World New York City. The proposed $5.5 billion project aims to create 5,000 jobs in various sectors, addressing the local youth unemployment issues. As the application process progresses, community support grows, though environmental concerns are raised regarding land use for development. With a planned investment from another contender, Metropolitan Park, of $8 billion to create 23,000 jobs, the economic implications could be substantial.
New York State is currently considering the issuance of up to three new downstate casino licenses, a move that could have significant economic implications for the region. Among the contenders is Resorts World New York City, which is proposing a $5.5 billion expansion that promises to create 5,000 quality jobs in the community.
Should the expansion receive the necessary commercial casino license, it aims to add these positions within six months. The new roles will cover a variety of sectors including hospitality, IT, security, facilities, and food and beverage services, with an attractive annual median wage of around $80,000, based on a pay rate of $39 per hour.
In anticipation of this expansion, Resorts World has collaborated with the City University of New York (CUNY) to develop a free “Intro to Gaming Operations” course to prepare local job seekers for careers within the gaming industry. Due to high demand, the program has seen such success that a second offering is now planned. Additionally, the company is establishing the Resorts World Career Center in downtown Jamaica, specifically designed to assist individuals in their job search efforts.
New York City is facing a youth unemployment rate that sits at 13.2% as of earlier this year, with the unemployment rate among Black New Yorkers aged 16 to 24 soaring to 23.8%. These statistics underscore the importance of job creation initiatives like this one, particularly as about 80% of Resorts World’s existing employees live within five miles of the facility. This indicates a strong opportunity for economic support in the local community.
In the ongoing casino license application process, the state’s Gaming Commission is tasked with evaluating multiple proposals from interested developers, including both Resorts World and another proposal known as Metropolitan Park. Each developer has submitted an application that costs $1 million. Community Advisory Committees (CACs) have been set up to review these bids, with a vote scheduled by September 30. For proposals to move forward, they must be approved by at least four out of six members of the respective committees.
Local government officials have largely expressed support for the casino proposals, recognizing the potential benefits in terms of job creation and economic development. The Metropolitan Park project, backed by Steve Cohen, constitutes an even more significant investment at $8 billion and aims to bring an impressive 23,000 jobs to the area.
Both Resorts World and Metropolitan Park’s projects are expected to make substantial contributions to local infrastructure and community health services. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards has voiced support for both initiatives, emphasizing their potential benefits to the community.
However, not everyone is in favor of the projects. Some state officials, including State Senator Jessica Ramos, have raised concerns about the conversion of parkland necessary for these developments. Their apprehensions reflect a balance of economic ambition and environmental stewardship that is essential in the decision-making process. As the evaluation process unfolds, the focus will remain on placing the needs of the local community at the forefront of discussions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- QNS: Resorts World Submits $5.5 Billion Plan
- Wikipedia: Casino
- Gothamist: Metropolitan Park Casino Project in Queens Wins City Council Zoning Approval
- Google Search: New York Casino Licenses
- NY Daily News: Queens Casino Will Help Many People
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economic Development
- CDC Gaming Reports: New York City Fate of Queens Casino Bidders Rests with Newly Appointed Committees
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
